Candles add warmth, relaxation, and a cozy ambiance to any space. But are you burning them the right way? Improper candle use can lead to uneven burns, wasted wax, and even safety hazards.
Here are 10 best practices to make sure your candles last longer, burn cleaner, and provide the best possible experience.
1️⃣ Trim the Wick Before Every Burn ✂️
A long wick creates a larger, smokier flame that can burn unevenly and leave soot stains. Keep your wick trimmed to ¼ inch before lighting to ensure a steady, clean burn.
2️⃣ The First Burn is the Most Important 🔥
The first time you light your candle, let it burn long enough for the entire surface to melt. This prevents tunnelling and ensures an even burn throughout its life.
3️⃣ Don’t Burn for Too Long ⏳
Candles should be burned for no more than 3-4 hours at a time. Burning too long can cause overheating, wick mushrooming, and excessive soot production.
4️⃣ Avoid Drafty Areas 💨
Placing your candle near windows, vents, or fans can cause uneven burning, flickering, and excessive smoke. Always burn in a stable, wind-free environment.
5️⃣ Use a Snuffer, Not Your Breath 🚫💨
Blowing out a candle causes smoke, wax splatter, and an unpleasant burnt smell. Instead, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame cleanly.
6️⃣ Keep the Wax Pool Clean 🏡
Dust, wick trimmings, and debris can cause uneven burning and unwanted smoke. Always keep the melted wax free of impurities.
7️⃣ Store Candles in a Cool, Dark Place ❄️
Heat and direct sunlight can cause wax discoloration and fragrance loss. Store candles in a cool, dry place to maintain their quality.
8️⃣ Use a Candle Coaster or Tray 🛑
To protect your furniture from heat damage and wax spills, place your candle on a heat-resistant surface or decorative tray.
9️⃣ Know When to Stop Burning ⚠️
Never let your candle burn all the way to the bottom – always leave at least ½ inch of wax to prevent overheating the container, which can cause breakage or fire hazards.
🔟 Repurpose or Refill Your Candle Container ♻️
Instead of tossing your used candle jars or bowls, clean them out and reuse them! Our Foxwood & Bramble wooden dough bowls are designed to be refilled or repurposed as trinket dishes, planters, or decorative pieces. 🌿
🏁 Final Thoughts: Burn Smarter, Not Harder! 🌍
A little candle care goes a long way! By following these simple steps, you can enjoy longer-lasting, cleaner-burning candles while maximising their beauty and safety.
Want to experience sustainable, refillable candles? Explore Foxwood & Bramble’s handmade wooden bowl candles today! 🔥
